Mobile network operators are proving that rising demand for digital connectivity does not have to mean higher emissions.
New figures from the GSMA, the global trade body for telcos, show that operators reduced their operational carbon emissions by 13% between 2019 and 2024, despite global mobile connections increasing by 10% and data traffic more than quadrupling over the same period.
The procurement of renewable energy has been central to this progress, though the GSMA warns that now is not the time for telcos to rest on their laurels.
The report says that faster action across electricity markets, network infrastructure and supply chains are going to be essential if the sector intends to stay on course for net zero.
The findings come from the Mobile Net Zero 2026: State of the Industry on Climate Action report, which analysed energy use and emissions data from more than 110 mobile operators representing 85% of mobile connections worldwide.
